(07/20/2020) Divine Forgiveness Ministers Grace

Today, forgiveness is described as an expression of divine grace and sacred revelation, rather than human kindness or a celestial response to sinners who seek favor and restoration by their declarations of apology, embarrassment, regret, and remorse. What many call “confession” is little more than boasting and proclaiming their errors and transgressions without also expressing sorrow for sin. Rightly understood, divine forgiveness only pertains to those who are in covenant and intimate relationships with divinity that are maintained through praise, prayer, repentance, unselfish service, suffering, and thanksgiving. Those who receive forgiveness are to grant forgiveness, for those who receive grace are to minister grace. It is written: Colossians 1: 16-22, King James Version (KJV): 16 For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him: 17 And he is before all things, and by him all things consist. 18 And he is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things he might have the preeminence. 19 For it pleased the Father that in him should all fulness dwell; 20 And, having made peace through the blood of his cross, by him to reconcile all things unto himself; by him, I say, whether they be things in earth, or things in heaven. 21 And you, that were sometime alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now hath he reconciled 22 In the body of his flesh through death, to present you holy and unblameable and unreproveable in his sight: The fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion & Spirituality who uses the ID “Floyd” (Level 1 with 156 points) posted the following:

Forgiveness ?

Can god forgive someone who lives in guilt and regret about their past? The wrong they have done and the one sin they can't get rid of?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: If thou, LORD, shouldest mark iniquities, O LORD, who shall stand? But there is forgiveness with thee, that thou mayest be feared. I wait for the LORD, my soul doth wait, and in his word do I hope. (Psalms 130: 3-5, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Living Your Best Life? (07/05/2020); The Outcomes Of Judgment (06/28/2020); Acknowledging And Confessing Sin (06/21/2020); Forgiveness A Sacred Practice (05/28/2020); Believers Are To Forgive (05/17/2020); TWO Kinds of People? (02/21/2020); The Character of GOD (06/27/2019)

“Floyd”, when speaking of forgiveness by divinity, the spotlight must be on GOD, not on the sinner, and not on the sin. Forgiveness is not bestowed in response to begging, complaining, crying, displaying misery and wretchedness, importuning, and pleading. There must be confession, contrition, meekness, and resolve. Thus, it is correct to use such words as “gifts” and “grace” to acknowledge GOD as the origin and source of sacred forgiveness. Properly understood, the divine practice of forgiveness that appears among mankind is an expression of the character and makeup of divine fullness (i.e., divinity; the Godhead; the Father, the Son, the Holy Spirit), and is not the outcome or result of lawful tribunal and sacred judgment against sin. Forgiveness is a sacred operation where divine process and substance make visible the inseparable aspects of the divine makeup that include balance, commitment, faith, holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, oneness without sameness, personhood, wisdom, and wrath against sin. Forgiveness does not take on its focus and form on the basis of human attitudes, behavior, emotions, frameworks of time (past, present, etc.), or motives and intent. The active and unseen presence whom we acknowledge as our Creator and Maker are to exist within the awareness and self-will of the living. Intimate fellowship and on-going relationship with GOD are possible where mankind will take on a fresh endowment of the life essence (breath; spirit; utterance; word) imparted from divinity. Sinners are to turn away from such elements as guilt, self-condemnation, self-importance, self-pity, and shame. Through discovery, gradual growth, practice, repentance, study, suffering, and good works all are to display the image of GOD, and as developing believers, they increasingly are to resemble, reflect, and reveal the character and likeness of Jesus Christ. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible, and a selection from the music ministry of Steve Amerson:

(1.) Matthew 6: 9-15, King James Version (KJV): 9 After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. 10 Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven. 11 Give us this day our daily bread. 12 And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. 13 And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen. 14 For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you: 15 But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.

(2.) Psalms 25: 5-11, KJV: 5 Lead me in thy truth, and teach me: for thou art the God of my salvation; on thee do I wait all the day. 6 Remember, O LORD, thy tender mercies and thy lovingkindnesses; for they have been ever of old. 7 Remember not the sins of my youth, nor my transgressions: according to thy mercy remember thou me for thy goodness' sake, O LORD. 8 Good and upright is the LORD: therefore will he teach sinners in the way. 9 The meek will he guide in judgment: and the meek will he teach his way. 10 All the paths of the LORD are mercy and truth unto such as keep his covenant and his testimonies. 11 For thy name’s sake, O LORD, pardon mine iniquity; for it is great.

(3.) Ephesians 4: 29-32, KJV: 29 Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers. 30 And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption. 31 Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all malice: 32 And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (4.) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5G8dZTWwvmU.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 12:00 PM, July 20, 2020 @ https://i.pinimg.com/736x/72/23/ce/7223ce3c13a394523230800ed5565d20.jpg

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(09/01/2019) Heathen and Pagan Ways

Today, reply is on teaching heathen ways and pagan practices among Christians in order to expose and condemn error. It is written: Deuteronomy 12: 29-32, King James Version (KJV): 29 When the LORD thy God shall cut off the nations from before thee, whither thou goest to possess them, and thou succeedest them, and dwellest in their land; 30 Take heed to thyself that thou be not snared by following them, after that they be destroyed from before thee; and that thou enquire not after their gods, saying, How did these nations serve their gods? even so will I do likewise. 31 Thou shalt not do so unto the LORD thy God: for every abomination to the LORD, which he hateth, have they done unto their gods; for even their sons and their daughters they have burnt in the fire to their gods. 32 What thing soever I command you, observe to do it: thou shalt not add thereto, nor diminish from it. One of the fighters in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion and Spirituality who uses the ID “Anonymous” (no profile information shared) posted the following:

Fellow Christians: does the Word of God tell us to learn not the ways of the heathens?

If so, what does that mean?

Does that mean to not look for information on how they practice witchcraft, astrology, divination, their pagan holidays, and so on?

Because I know of a ministry where a man reads pagan books and tells Christians exactly how pagans practice tbeir religion. And it made me wonder, is that really what God wants us to do- to go and study the details from pagan books? He does it to point out how wedding rings, Christmas and other things are pagan and against Christianity.

Thank you for your help. God bless!

THE GOLDEN ARROW: Moreover if thy brother shall trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone: if he shall hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother. But if he will not hear thee, then take with thee one or two more, that in the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established. And if he shall neglect to hear them, tell it unto the church: but if he neglect to hear the church, let him be unto thee as an heathen man and a publican. Verily I say unto you, Whatsoever ye shall bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever ye shall loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven. Again I say unto you, That if two of you shall agree on earth as touching any thing that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of my Father which is in heaven. For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them. (Matthew 18: 15-20, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Acknowledgment Rather Than Surrender (11/07/2018); The Meaning of Christmas? (12/22/2016); The Cross a Human Sacrifice? (04/18/2016); African American Christmas? (12/15/2015); The Choice of Knowledge? (10/28/2015); Christ Brought A New Nature? (07/15/2015); GOD Rules (07/07/2015)

“Anonymous”, the church as the household of GOD, and the community of faith encourages standards and values that otherwise can not be found among mankind. Mature followers of Christ are to display the character, image, and substance of the Savior. Therefore, their relationships should be marked by accountability, balance, consistency, impartiality, stability, and unselfishness. Those called “heathen” in the Scriptures are transgressors of divine law who fashion and worship idols, and those who defile and pollute the true people of GOD. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

1. Psalms 96: 2-10, King James Version (KJV): 2 Sing unto the LORD, bless his name; shew forth his salvation from day to day. 3 Declare his glory among the heathen, his wonders among all people. 4 For the LORD is great, and greatly to be praised: he is to be feared above all gods. 5 For all the gods of the nations are idols: but the LORD made the heavens. 6 Honour and majesty are before him: strength and beauty are in his sanctuary. 7 Give unto the LORD, O ye kindreds of the people, give unto the LORD glory and strength. 8 Give unto the LORD the glory due unto his name: bring an offering, and come into his courts. 9 O worship the LORD in the beauty of holiness: fear before him, all the earth. 10 Say among the heathen that the LORD reigneth: the world also shall be established that it shall not be moved: he shall judge the people righteously.

2. Psalms 106: 34-41, KJV: 34 They did not destroy the nations, concerning whom the LORD commanded them: 35 But were mingled among the heathen, and learned their works. 36 And they served their idols: which were a snare unto them. 37 Yea, they sacrificed their sons and their daughters unto devils, 38 And shed innocent blood, even the blood of their sons and of their daughters, whom they sacrificed unto the idols of Canaan: and the land was polluted with blood. 39 Thus were they defiled with their own works, and went a whoring with their own inventions. 40 Therefore was the wrath of the LORD kindled against his people, insomuch that he abhorred his own inheritance. 41 And he gave them into the hand of the heathen; and they that hated them ruled over them.

3. 2^nd Timothy 3: 1-7, KJV: 1 This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come. 2 For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, 3 Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good, 4 Traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God; 5 Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away. 6 For of this sort are they which creep into houses, and lead captive silly women laden with sins, led away with divers lusts, 7 Ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, 4. Romans 16: 17-20, KJV: 17 Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them. 18 For they that are such serve not our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly; and by good words and fair speeches deceive the hearts of the simple. 19 For your obedience is come abroad unto all men. I am glad therefore on your behalf: but yet I would have you wise unto that which is good, and simple concerning evil. 20 And the God of peace shall bruise Satan under your feet shortly. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you. Amen.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded @ 10:04 PM, August 31, 2019 @ https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6jp9rlBtN5Yl7TEXRvz9JbWugfp0qrcANfQ1-r8dFi71CYkC4ejM2qXqZ2krKrdnTfPp52MNoIKpalOvi0nF50M2kzEyIgT_esneATwWGQczaeu2r67HhbTxyNytQLwzJRkuZQ45SnHan/s1600/

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THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(06/23/2019) Preserved As Life Companions

Today, reply is on sinners receiving a new heart, a new mind, and new spirit; becoming the new creation of Jesus Christ; being made immortal to serve in heaven; and being received into a new heaven and earth created by GOD. Many are making the mistake of seeking to put away guilt, sin, and shame by denying GOD, ignoring Jesus Christ, and responding as skeptics to the Holy Spirit, rather than embrace the gifts from divinity for salvation. For Christian believers, remembrance of sin is to operate as admonition, guidance, and warning, and is not to continue as a lingering form of corruption, decay, and rottenness. Truth is to remain unchanged, yet, fear, guilt and shame are to be put away. To receive Christian belief is to become permanently transformed through multiple operations of divinity that separate the living from sin. The hearts and minds of all in heaven will be emptied of such thoughts as grudges, pay back, relationships of obligation, and revenge. All will be on the plane of perfection where no one will question the correctness of forgiveness imparted through the grace and judgment of GOD. The truest manifestations of accepting divine rule, accountability, forgiveness, and godly love always will appear. On the question of Levirate marriage commanded in the law and the prophets to maintain stability for inheritance and property ownership within Israel, it is written: Mark 12: 18-26, King James Version (KJV): 18 Then come unto him the Sadducees, which say there is no resurrection; and they asked him, saying, 19 Master, Moses wrote unto us, If a man’s brother die, and leave his wife behind him, and leave no children, that his brother should take his wife, and raise up seed unto his brother. 20 Now there were seven brethren: and the first took a wife, and dying left no seed. 21 And the second took her, and died, neither left he any seed: and the third likewise. 22 And the seven had her, and left no seed: last of all the woman died also. 23 In the resurrection therefore, when they shall rise, whose wife shall she be of them? for the seven had her to wife. 24 And Jesus answering said unto them, Do ye not therefore err, because ye know not the scriptures, neither the power of God? 25 For when they shall rise from the dead, they neither marry, nor are given in marriage; but are as the angels which are in heaven. 26 And as touching the dead, that they rise: have ye not read in the book of Moses, how in the bush God spake unto him, saying, I am the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob? 27 He is not the God of the dead, but the God of the living: ye therefore do greatly err. The fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion and Spirituality with the ID “Greg” (Level 1 with 4 points, a member since September 05, 2015) posted the following:

If you end up in heaven with someone who killed your loved one (and your loved one is in hell), are you truly yourself in heaven?

Imagine the following scenario:

A loving married couple (who are atheists) are attacked by a bugler in their home. The burglar ends up murdering the wife. The wife ends up in hell.

Later on in life, the burglar ends up converting to Christianity while in prison. The husband ends up converting to Christianity also later in life. Both the burglar and the husband die of natural causes and are in heaven. According to Christianity, all people in heaven are happy and there is no sorrow.

So, will the husband truly be himself if he's in heaven with the guy who murdered his wife while his wife is burning in hell?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: If so be that ye have heard him, and have been taught by him, as the truth is in Jesus: That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts; And be renewed in the spirit of your mind; And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness. Wherefore putting away lying, speak every man truth with his neighbour: for we are members one of another. Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath: Neither give place to the devil. Let him that stole steal no more: but rather let him labour, working with his hands the thing which is good, that he may have to give to him that needeth. Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers. And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption. Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all malice: And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you. (Ephesians 4: 21-32, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Upon All The Glory (06/18/2019); Spiritual Confusion About Heaven (05/31/2019); Asking Questions in Heaven? (11/15/2018); Deposits Of Sacred Substance (06/27/2018); Reasons for Our Existence? (11/01/2017); What Does Divinity Want? (03/13/2017); The Complete Divine Revelation? (03/10/2017)

“Greg”, believers do not go to heaven as a holiday or a vacation. By mistakenly focusing on the cruelty, sins, transgressions of divine law, and wickedness that the living commit on the earth, many also fail to apprehend the eternal purpose, process, and substance of divine judgment along with resurrection of the saints for service, and the truth that heaven, as we speak of it now, will not exist forever. Where sinners turn to GOD through Jesus Christ, they are guided and supplied with spirit gifts from the makeup of divinity that include faith, holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, repentance, wisdom, and wrath against sin. As those who are “born again”, developing Christians must “grow up again” to become mature/ripe for harvest by the Lord at his coming. Christians must face the same life challenges and growing pains endured by others on the earth; and all will be examined against the life and work of Jesus Christ for their fitness to endure as immortal, incorruptible companions to divinity.

Those who go to heaven do so as immortal companions of Jesus who will complete divine works already begun in heaven and on the earth. Included will be completing construction and allotments for the Holy City, completing the white throne judgment, executing the second death, and repopulating the earth. Divine judgment proceeds on the basis of multiple levels of lawful demands and requirements by the active presence of spirit from GOD, rather than on finite human desires, discrete events, emotions, and carnal reason. No one will be admitted to heaven “by accident,” neither will any be overlooked and unjustly denied. Following their judgment, those in heaven from the earth will be acknowledged as offspring of GOD, joint-heirs with Christ, and the new creation from the Son of the Highest. Their awareness and self-will, once dominated by operations of sin, will be forever impermeable, sealed and shielded through their anointing and fresh endowments from the Lord. Their character, personalities, personal relationships, sins, and struggles while on the earth, will not be remembered. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

1. 1^st Corinthians 15: 50-57, King James Version (KJV): 50 Now this I say, brethren, that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God; neither doth corruption inherit incorruption. 51 Behold, I shew you a mystery; We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, 52 In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed. 53 For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality. 54 So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory. 55 O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory? 56 The sting of death is sin; and the strength of sin is the law. 57 But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.

2. Revelation 3: 11-12, KJV: 11 Behold, I come quickly: hold that fast which thou hast, that no man take thy crown. 12 Him that overcometh will I make a pillar in the temple of my God, and he shall go no more out: and I will write upon him the name of my God, and the name of the city of my God, which is new Jerusalem, which cometh down out of heaven from my God: and I will write upon him my new name.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, 3. Revelation 21: 3-5, KJV: 3 And I heard a great voice out of heaven saying, Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and he will dwell with them, and they shall be his people, and God himself shall be with them, and be their God. 4 And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away. 5 And he that sat upon the throne said, Behold, I make all things new. And he said unto me, Write:  for these words are true and faithful.)

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THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(06/20/2019) Why Jesus Comes Back

Today, reply is on why politics, errors among Christian believers, and issues of American government are not the reasons Jesus Christ will return to the earth. The promises of GOD and published prophecy will not be erased, and will not remain unfulfilled. The kingdom of GOD is a monarchy having a single, ruler as sovereign over all. Those who belong to Jesus Christ through operations of sacred truth and Spirit acknowledge that influence and process within the kingdom of GOD are very different than that for America, and the many other modern nation states. The makeup and operations of divinity are such that even present day followers of Jesus may be certain of commanded expectations (we say, hope), divine law, outcomes in tribunals of judgment, sacred proclamations, promises, prophesies, eternal purpose, revelation, and the inseparable aspects of Spirit now residing within mankind imparted from the GODhead. It is written: 2^nd Corinthians 4: 17-18, King James Version (KJV): 17 For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory; 18 While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal. A fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion and Spirituality who uses the ID “Duck” (Level 7 with 45,233 points, a member since July 28, 2010) posted the following:

Does Jesus need to come back to set His followers right, so they'll stop supporting people like Trump?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: And I saw a new heaven and a new earth: for the first heaven and the first earth were passed away; and there was no more sea. And I John saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. And I heard a great voice out of heaven saying, Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and he will dwell with them, and they shall be his people, and God himself shall be with them, and be their God. And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away. And he that sat upon the throne said, Behold, I make all things new. And he said unto me, Write: for these words are true and faithful. (Revelation 21: 1-5, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: To Be Jesus’ Sheep (06/10/2019); Recognizing The End Times (04/16/2019); His Words About Returning (12/02/2018); Preparing For The Rapture (11/09/2018); A Short Time Left (10/30/2018); Proper Training For Belief? (01/10/2018); Christ Is The Firstborn (12/26/2017); Installing The New President (01/20/2017); Storms to Punish America? (09/08/2017)

“Duck”, developing and mature Christian believers are encouraged to maintain godly lifestyles and daily routines that will be acceptable to Jesus Christ whenever he might return to harvest the earth (we say, Advent; the Rapture; the soon coming; the Second Coming). No exact day or hour of his coming has been provided; however, it has already been proclaimed and recorded within the holy writings that Jesus definitely will return to receive to himself all those past and present (i.e., from the time of Adam to modern times), who belong to GOD through the ministries of Jesus on the earth, and from the heaven. The familiar crises and tragic events that appear among nations (e.g., financial collapse; global warming; weather emergencies; nuclear warfare) can neither delay, nor trigger the sacred events that are to fulfill divine prerogative, final judgment, sacred promise, prophesy, eternal purpose, and the sovereign will of GOD. In this sense, the future for Christians is already set; and believers who are the new creation of Jesus Christ should entertain no fears because of democracy as a form of government; the continuing conflicts of political theory, ethical behavior, and party power that exist among American elected officials; or even the admonitions and warnings concerning End Time themes such as the appearance of false prophets, Satan, and the Antichrist. Consider the following assurances that use language from the Bible:

1. Daniel 7: 13-14, King James Version (KJV): 13 I saw in the night visions, and, behold, one like the Son of man came with the clouds of heaven, and came to the Ancient of days, and they brought him near before him. 14 And there was given him dominion, and glory, and a kingdom, that all people, nations, and languages, should serve him: his dominion is an everlasting dominion, which shall not pass away, and his kingdom that which shall not be destroyed.

2. 1^st John 4: 1-6, KJV: 1 Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world. 2 Hereby know ye the Spirit of God: Every spirit that confesseth that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is of God: 3 And every spirit that confesseth not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is not of God: and this is that spirit of antichrist, whereof ye have heard that it should come; and even now already is it in the world. 4 Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world. 5 They are of the world: therefore speak they of the world, and the world heareth them. 6 We are of God: he that knoweth God heareth us; he that is not of God heareth not us. Hereby know we the spirit of truth, and the spirit of error.

3. Revelation 14: 14-16, KJV: 14 And I looked, and behold a white cloud, and upon the cloud one sat like unto the Son of man, having on his head a golden crown, and in his hand a sharp sickle. 15 And another angel came out of the temple, crying with a loud voice to him that sat on the cloud, Thrust in thy sickle, and reap: for the time is come for thee to reap; for the harvest of the earth is ripe. 16 And he that sat on the cloud thrust in his sickle on the earth; and the earth was reaped.

4. Revelation 20: 9-15, KJV: 9 And they went up on the breadth of the earth, and compassed the camp of the saints about, and the beloved city: and fire came down from God out of heaven, and devoured them. 10 And the devil that deceived them was cast into the lake of fire and brimstone, where the beast and the false prophet are, and shall be tormented day and night for ever and ever. 11 And I saw a great white throne, and him that sat on it, from whose face the earth and the heaven fled away; and there was found no place for them. 12 And I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God; and the books were opened: and another book was opened, which is the book of life: and the dead were judged out of those things which were written in the books, according to their works. 13 And the sea gave up the dead which were in it; and death and hell delivered up the dead which were in them: and they were judged every man according to their works. 14 And death and hell were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death. 15 And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, 5. 1^st Thessalonians 4: 13-18, KJV: 13 But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning them which are asleep, that ye sorrow not, even as others which have no hope. 14 For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with him. 15 For this we say unto you by the word of the Lord, that we which are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord shall not prevent them which are asleep. 16 For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: 17 Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord. 18 Wherefore comfort one another with these words.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 5:03 PM, June 19, 2019 @ https://www.messagemagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/sickle-and-grain.jpg

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(04/24/2019) Moses Was Not Divine

A depiction of Moses allowed to view, yet, not set foot on the land promised to Abraham (see image reference below)

Today, reply is on the humanity of Moses, and his error that resulted in the prophet not being allowed to enter the Promised Land. Moses did not part the Red Sea; that was an act of GOD performed to make visible divine prerogative, eternal purpose, grace, and the sovereign will of GOD. As a prophet and spokesperson sent from GOD, Moses and the tables of stone were to serve as divinely appointed emblems (like a police officer’s badge), credible witnesses to the active presence who is divinity, and enduring tools to discern the workings of GOD’s authority and dominion. Mankind’s anger, bitterness, and rage against one another along with the unwillingness to forgive or be in reconciliation are not the same as divine wrath against sin; and it is not correct that men express the wrath of GOD against sin during human tribunals for judgment. The divine process of assigning value, determining continuity and duration, and providing correction within ongoing relationships demands attention to detail, balance, completeness, impartiality, mercy, and righteousness. The two stone tablets whereon the finger of GOD had recorded the covenant law for Israel were destroyed by Moses to declare the unworthiness of Jacob and the mixed multitude to receive divine gifts as well as to punish Israel, yet, was no more than a another human act of temper, violence, and self-will. It is written: Romans 10: 2-4, King James Version (KJV): 2 For I bear them record that they have a zeal of God, but not according to knowledge. 3 For they being ignorant of God’s righteousness, and going about to establish their own righteousness, have not submitted themselves unto the righteousness of God. 4 For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to every one that believeth. One of the fighters in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion and Spirituality who uses the ID “Anonymous” (no profile information shown) posted the following:

If Moses could part the Red Sea, why couldn't he make the stone tablets without breaking the first set?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: For the law was given by Moses, but grace and truth came by Jesus Christ. (John 1: 17, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: The Divinity of Peter? (01/21/2019); Lost For 40 Years? (09/17/2018); Judgment Against The Canaanites (08/01/2018); What Would Moses Say? (10/27/2017); The Generation That Wandered (06/14/2017); Divine Law Expresses Love (05/10/2017); The Transfiguration of Christ (11/14/2016); The Body of Moses (05/11/2014); GOD Permits Evil? (05/12/2014)

“Anonymous”, because GOD is an immortal, incorruptible, invisible spirit, the Creator has used many different carnal, material and social devices that can be recognized and understood by created beings and living creatures to make divinity knowable, accessible, and approachable. In addition to spirit beings and divine process (e.g., angels, prophetic dreams, visions), GOD has used specially selected and prepared human agents and operations. Included have been Adam, the Patriarchs, judges, kings, priests, and prophets as well as birth, family, government, and inheritance.

Moses was selected to serve as a visible, human spokesperson for unseen divinity. The personhood of Moses was not divine or perfected; however, his character and nature were pliable and responsive to divine fullness (the holy writings say, Moses was meek and teachable above all the men on the earth). Moses received important benefits and instruction that would fit him for leadership of the sons of Jacob while growing up within the household of Pharaoh; however there, Moses also was continually exposed to the arrogance, idolatry, exaggerated pride, and spiritual confusion that dominated the then-known-world through Egypt. During the time of famine, the Egyptian people sold their livestock, their land, and even themselves to Pharaoh. When they became the “private property” of Pharaoh, they also lost all possibility of their own family inheritances.

The authentic humanity of Moses is seen in his responses to the opposition he was shown by those who left Egypt at his urging. His authority and integrity were repeatedly challenged. Moses failed to maintain humility and self-restraint on more than one occasion. When Moses intervened between an Egyptian and a Hebrew in a dispute, the outcome was after the example of Cain, who killed his brother Abel. When commanded to call forth water from a rock, Moses lost his temper, and expressed his anger and disgust with the people. Although he had served GOD for 40 years living among the Hebrews as a nomad, Moses (and more than ½ million others numbered as the army of Israel) would be denied the privilege of setting foot within the land of Canaan. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

1. Numbers 12: 1-9, King James Version (KJV): 1 And Miriam and Aaron spake against Moses because of the Ethiopian woman whom he had married: for he had married an Ethiopian woman. 2 And they said, Hath the LORD indeed spoken only by Moses? hath he not spoken also by us? And the LORD heard it. 3 (Now the man Moses was very meek, above all the men which were upon the face of the earth.) 4 And the LORD spake suddenly unto Moses, and unto Aaron, and unto Miriam, Come out ye three unto the tabernacle of the congregation. And they three came out. 5 And the LORD came down in the pillar of the cloud, and stood in the door of the tabernacle, and called Aaron and Miriam: and they both came forth. 6 And he said, Hear now my words: If there be a prophet among you, I the LORD will make myself known unto him in a vision, and will speak unto him in a dream. 7 My servant Moses is not so, who is faithful in all mine house. 8 With him will I speak mouth to mouth, even apparently, and not in dark speeches; and the similitude of the LORD shall he behold: wherefore then were ye not afraid to speak against my servant Moses?

9 And the anger of the LORD was kindled against them; and he departed.

2. Numbers 14: 26-31, KJV: 26 And the LORD spake unto Moses and unto Aaron, saying, 27 How long shall I bear with this evil congregation, which murmur against me? I have heard the murmurings of the children of Israel, which they murmur against me. 28 Say unto them, As truly as I live, saith the LORD, as ye have spoken in mine ears, so will I do to you: 29 Your carcases shall fall in this wilderness; and all that were numbered of you, according to your whole number, from twenty years old and upward which have murmured against me. 30 Doubtless ye shall not come into the land, concerning which I sware to make you dwell therein, save Caleb the son of Jephunneh, and Joshua the son of Nun. 31 But your little ones, which ye said should be a prey, them will I bring in, and they shall know the land which ye have despised.

3. Numbers 20: 7-12, KJV: 7 And the Lord spake unto Moses, saying,

8 Take the rod, and gather thou the assembly together, thou, and Aaron thy brother, and speak ye unto the rock before their eyes; and it shall give forth his water, and thou shalt bring forth to them water out of the rock: so thou shalt give the congregation and their beasts drink.

9 And Moses took the rod from before the Lord, as he commanded him. 10 And Moses and Aaron gathered the congregation together before the rock, and he said unto them, Hear now, ye rebels; must we fetch you water out of this rock? 11 And Moses lifted up his hand, and with his rod he smote the rock twice: and the water came out abundantly, and the congregation drank, and their beasts also. 12 And the LORD spake unto Moses and Aaron, Because ye believed me not, to sanctify me in the eyes of the children of Israel, therefore ye shall not bring this congregation into the land which I have given them.

4. Deuteronomy 32: 48-52, KJV: 48 And the LORD spake unto Moses that selfsame day, saying, 49 Get thee up into this mountain Abarim, unto mount Nebo, which is in the land of Moab, that is over against Jericho; and behold the land of Canaan, which I give unto the children of Israel for a possession: 50 And die in the mount whither thou goest up, and be gathered unto thy people; as Aaron thy brother died in mount Hor, and was gathered unto his people: 51 Because ye trespassed against me among the children of Israel at the waters of MeribahKadesh, in the wilderness of Zin; because ye sanctified me not in the midst of the children of Israel. 52 Yet thou shalt see the land before thee; but thou shalt not go thither unto the land which I give the children of Israel.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, 5. James 1: 19-21, KJV: 19 Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath: 20 For the wrath of man worketh not the righteousness of God. 21 Wherefore lay apart all filthiness and superfluity of naughtiness, and receive with meekness the engrafted word, which is able to save your souls.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 10:48 AM, April 24, 2019 @ https://www.bible-history.com/biblestudy/arkofthecovenant/moses-on-mtnebo-640.jpg

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(02/16/2017) Warnings Against Forgetting GOD?

Jesus Healing the Man Blind From Birth

 

Today, focus is on language in Scripture warning against presumption, exaggerated pride, and self-will.  The fighter at “Yahoo! Answers (India)” using the ID “Breakthrough” (Level 6 with 15,801 points, a member since June 29, 2013) posted the following:

 

Why does the bible say "you might say, my power and the strength of my hands have created this wealth for me."?

That would imply that acquiring wealth requires a lot of sacrifice and hard work and it doesn't come easily - even to the obedient who do what the bible says.

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  Offer unto God thanksgiving; and pay thy vows unto the most High:  And call upon me in the day of trouble:  I will deliver thee, and thou shalt glorify me.  But unto the wicked God saith, What hast thou to do to declare my statutes, or that thou shouldest take my covenant in thy mouth?  Seeing thou hatest instruction, and casteth my words behind thee.  When thou sawest a thief, then thou consentedst with him, and hast been partaker with adulterers.  Thou givest thy mouth to evil, and thy tongue frameth deceit.  Thou sittest and speakest against thy brother; thou slanderest thine own mother’s son.  These things hast thou done, and I kept silence; thou thoughtest that I was altogether such an one as thyself:  but I will reprove thee, and set them in order before thine eyes.  Now consider this, ye that forget God, lest I tear you in pieces, and there be none to deliver.  Whoso offereth praise glorifieth me:  and to him that ordereth his conversation aright will I shew the salvation of God.  (Psalms 50:  14-23, King James Version, KJV)

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Choice, Duty, and Obligation? (11/17/2016); Works of the Spirit? (11/04/2016); Presumption Is Never Helping (05/23/2016); Presumption, Pride and Sin? (11/24/2015); The Sin of Pride? (08/13/2014); Judged For Acts and Thoughts? (08/14/2014); Humility Needed for Salvation? (08/15/2014); False Angels of Light? (08/16/2014)

 

“Breakthrough”, using the holy writings men on the earth are being alerted to human error and exaggerated pride regarding divine truth.  Awareness and self-will in the living may be dominated by sin, a non-material, non-spirit influence that opposes the continued existence of divine law, the Law Giver, and the divine order through law that generates the universe.  Focus on oneself, carnal reason, emotions and sensations along with the complexities of social process (e.g., communication, exchange, interaction, sharing) make mankind incapable of seeing naturally that the true character and substance of sin is contrary and foreign to all existence and life.  In addition to failing to correctly discern the operations and outcomes of sin, created beings and living creatures (even those who are “believers”) may become “blind” to the active presence of divinity.  GOD is a spirit, and therefore must be known by the living through the action of spirit material within themselves that was passed on to us as breath and life essence (we say, spirit, word) deposited from the makeup of divinity at Creation.  Fresh endowments of spirit will be received by those who are “born again” that make GOD knowable, known, unforgettable, and “visible”.  Included are faith, forbearance, forgiveness, holiness, hope, joy, longsuffering, lovingkindness, wisdom, and wrath against sin.  Consider again the following from the Scriptures:

(1.)  Judges 7:  1-4, King James Version (KJV):  1 Then Jerubbaal, who is Gideon, and all the people that were with him, rose up early, and pitched beside the well of Harod:  so that the host of the Midianites were on the north side of them, by the hill of Moreh, in the valley.  2 And the LORD said unto Gideon, The people that are with thee are too many for me to give the Midianites into their hands, lest Israel vaunt themselves against me, saying, Mine own hand hath saved me.  3 Now therefore go to, proclaim in the ears of the people, saying, Whosoever is fearful and afraid, let him return and depart early from mount Gilead. And there returned of the people twenty and two thousand; and there remained ten thousand.  4 And the LORD said unto Gideon, The people are yet too many; bring them down unto the water, and I will try them for thee there:  and it shall be, that of whom I say unto thee, This shall go with thee, the same shall go with thee; and of whomsoever I say unto thee, This shall not go with thee, the same shall not go.

(2.)  Daniel 4:  30-33, KJV:  30 The king spake, and said, Is not this great Babylon, that I have built for the house of the kingdom by the might of my power, and for the honour of my majesty?  31 While the word was in the king’s mouth, there fell a voice from heaven, saying, O king Nebuchadnezzar, to thee it is spoken; The kingdom is departed from thee.  32 And they shall drive thee from men, and thy dwelling shall be with the beasts of the field:  they shall make thee to eat grass as oxen, and seven times shall pass over thee, until thou know that the most High ruleth in the kingdom of men, and giveth it to whomsoever he will.  33 The same hour was the thing fulfilled upon Nebuchadnezzar:  and he was driven from men, and did eat grass as oxen, and his body was wet with the dew of heaven, till his hairs were grown like eagles’ feathers, and his nails like birds’ claws.

(3.)  John 9:  39-41, KJV:  39 And Jesus said, For judgment I am come into this world, that they which see not might see; and that they which see might be made blind.  40 And some of the Pharisees which were with him heard these words, and said unto him, Are we blind also?  41 Jesus said unto them, If ye were blind, ye should have no sin:  but now ye say, We see; therefore your sin remaineth.

There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (4.)  2nd Corinthians 4:  3-7, KJV:  3 But if our gospel be hid, it is hid to them that are lost:  4 In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them.  5 For we preach not ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord; and ourselves your servants for Jesus’ sake.  6 For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.  7 But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(12/30/2016) The de facto Covenants?

 

Today, thoughts are shared on the birth of Jesus and the establishment of lasting covenants among the Jews as a people through their rejection of the Lord as Messiah and Savior.  Christian believers are commanded to pray for Jerusalem and all Israel.  As we go forward to the year 2017, many around the world also are willing to discharge their duty to be allies with the Jews by sharing admonitions, cautions, prophecy, reminders, and sacred warnings.

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  Giving thanks unto the Father, which hath made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light:  Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son:  In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins:  Who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature:  For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers:  all things were created by him, and for him:  And he is before all things, and by him all things consist.  And he is the head of the body, the church:  who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things he might have the preeminence.  For it pleased the Father that in him should all fulness dwell;  And, having made peace through the blood of his cross, by him to reconcile all things unto himself; by him, I say, whether they be things in earth, or things in heaven.  And you, that were sometime alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now hath he reconciled  In the body of his flesh through death, to present you holy and unblameable and unreproveable in his sight:  (Colossians 1:  12-22, King James Version, KJV)

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Christus Natus Est Nobis (12/29/2016); A Child Is Born (12/28/2016); The Birth of Jesus (12/27/2016); The Divine Christmas Gifts? (12/26/2016); The Peace of Christmas? (12/25/2016); Built Upon the Rock (12/23/2016); The Meaning of Christmas? (12/22/2016)

 

The kingdom of GOD proclaimed through the birth, death on the cross, resurrection, and ascension of Jesus Christ generated only one authentic covenant from GOD for a new Creation to replace the universe soiled by sin both in heaven and upon the earth.  The Savior appeared as a newborn king among the Jews in furtherance of the ongoing covenant of Moses, and fulfillment of divine promises and prophecy.  A new covenant also was advanced in his blood that would permit access to GOD through atonement and propitiation for sin.  Where the Jews rejected the Nazarene as the Messiah who should come, they also unknowingly entered into accords that were in opposition to divine law and the eternal purposes of GOD.  Included were agreements to (1) dismiss the miracles, acts of faith, reverence for the law, and prophetic demonstrations shared by Jesus and his followers; (2) engage the “law and the prophets” without “the prophets”; (3.) as Sadducees, deny the resurrection of Jesus and the existence of the imparted Spirit from GOD; (4) unanimously demand the crucifixion of Jesus; (5) submit themselves and their future generations to whatever would be the consequences or punishment for rejecting the Redeemer as the promised Messiah; (6) put forth false witness against Christ in judgment; (7) quench the hope of Jesus returning soon Judge and King of Kings; and (8) limit themselves to expressing only an “antichrist spirit.”  Consider again the following from the holy writings:

(1.)  Isaiah 28:  5-13, King James Version (KJV):  5 In that day shall the LORD of hosts be for a crown of glory, and for a diadem of beauty, unto the residue of his people,  6 And for a spirit of judgment to him that sitteth in judgment, and for strength to them that turn the battle to the gate.  7 But they also have erred through wine, and through strong drink are out of the way; the priest and the prophet have erred through strong drink, they are swallowed up of wine, they are out of the way through strong drink; they err in vision, they stumble in judgment.  8 For all tables are full of vomit and filthiness, so that there is no place clean.  9 Whom shall he teach knowledge? and whom shall he make to understand doctrine? them that are weaned from the milk, and drawn from the breasts.  10 For precept must be upon precept, precept upon precept; line upon line, line upon line; here a little, and there a little:  11 For with stammering lips and another tongue will he speak to this people.  12 To whom he said, This is the rest wherewith ye may cause the weary to rest; and this is the refreshing:  yet they would not hear.  13 But the word of the LORD was unto them precept upon precept, precept upon precept; line upon line, line upon line; here a little, and there a little; that they might go, and fall backward, and be broken, and snared, and taken.

(2.)  Romans 10:  2-10, KJV:  2 For I bear them record that they have a zeal of God, but not according to knowledge.  3 For they being ignorant of God’s righteousness, and going about to establish their own righteousness, have not submitted themselves unto the righteousness of God.  4 For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to every one that believeth.  5 For Moses describeth the righteousness which is of the law, That the man which doeth those things shall live by them.  6 But the righteousness which is of faith speaketh on this wise, Say not in thine heart, Who shall ascend into heaven? (that is, to bring Christ down from above:)  7 Or, Who shall descend into the deep? (that is, to bring up Christ again from the dead.)  8 But what saith it? The word is nigh thee, even in thy mouth, and in thy heart:  that is, the word of faith, which we preach;  9 That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.  10 For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.

There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (3.)  John 1:  10-13, KJV:  10 He was in the world, and the world was made by him, and the world knew him not.  11 He came unto his own, and his own received him not.  12 But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name:  13 Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(07/14/2016) What True Believers Do

Today, the common errors are in view of seeking to identify and label Christian believers—and count the number of those within the Kingdom—on the basis of extraordinary events (signs), or their “good works” and service, rather, than their spirit content from GOD.  The followers of Jesus are not required to “move mountains” so much as they are to quietly endure and respond as Jesus would to life experiences upon the earth that may include betrayal, contradiction, loss, oppression, persecution, and suffering.  The ability to distinguish the spiritual standing and status of others requires discernment (i.e., applying ones own divine spirit content to correctly recognize spirit matter in events, messages, objects, oneself, other persons, etc.).  The character, nature, and spirit substance of sinners can be permanently changed through rebirth that may occur in baptism, or the falling of the Holy Spirit.  Content from the makeup of divinity is imparted to the sinner, and must develop, grow and bear fruit within them, in a way similar to that for seeds that are planted in the earth.  The fruit of the Spirit is in all goodness and righteousness and truth.  In place of the works of the flesh, or even more ceremonies, rites, rituals, and sacraments, a godly crop from the divine presence is to appear.  For the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance:  against such there is no law.  Even so, as those who are born-again, all believers will not be gifted, given deposits from Deity, and guided to serve as apostles, bishops, deacons and prophets who will regularly display casting out devils (exorcism), healing, speaking in tongues, or interpreting tongues.  While all are not required to oversee congregations, be head of a family, perform miracles, preach, and teach, all are to continually acknowledge and portray the gentleness, godliness, and goodness of Jesus Christ in their own daily routines of life.  Believers are enabled to share the Gospel through personal testimony, their ongoing relationships, and by witness to things recorded in the holy writings.  The fighter at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “Abraham” (Level 1 with 31 points, a member since June 12, 2014) posted the following:

Are all people who run their mouthes claiming they believe in God real believers?

Jesus replied, "Truly I tell you, if you have faith and do not doubt, not only can you do what was done to the fig tree, but also you can say to this mountain, 'Go, throw yourself into the sea,' and it will be done.

How many of you people can do this?
How many true believers are there?

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  They said therefore unto him, What sign shewest thou then, that we may see, and believe thee? what dost thou work?  Our fathers did eat manna in the desert; as it is written, He gave them bread from heaven to eat.  Then Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Moses gave you not that bread from heaven; but my Father giveth you the true bread from heaven.  For the bread of God is he which cometh down from heaven, and giveth life unto the world.  Then said they unto him, Lord, evermore give us this bread.  And Jesus said unto them, I am the bread of life:  he that cometh to me shall never hunger; and he that believeth on me shall never thirst.  But I said unto you, That ye also have seen me, and believe not.  All that the Father giveth me shall come to me; and him that cometh to me I will in no wise cast out.  (John 6:  30-37, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Proud, Yet Not Mature? (07/11/2016); To Him That Hath... (07/08/2016); About Other People's Beliefs (06/22/2016); Guided By Divine Truth (06/20/2016); The Only One Sent? (02/19/2016); Growing Up Again? (12/09/2015); Whatsoever Ye Shall Ask? (09/21/2015); Not Anti-Catholics, Antichrists? (09/22/2015)

“Abraham”, until they have been “born again” and established within the system of Christian belief as “doers of the word, not hearers, only”; sinners are not capable of performing as apostles, prophets, and spokespersons sent by GOD.  To exercise the authority, power, and wisdom for such office, a believer first must gradually mature (“grow up again”) through such activity as exchange and interaction with more experienced disciples and followers of the Lord (e.g., clergy); by praise, prayer, reverence, thanksgiving, and worship; by study of the holy writings as well as by giving, sharing, and unselfish service.  While sacred events (we say, miracles; signs; wonders) may result through faith, faith is not always the outcome of miracles.  Amazing and spectacular displays may derive from lust for popularity and vainglory, self-promotion, and “showmanship”.  When not prayerfully provided, miracles may increase complacency, fear, indifference, skepticism, superstition, and uncertainty.  Thus, more than performing miracles, those who are sent as incarnations and vessels of divinity are to display faith and the other inseparable aspects of spirit content from GOD.  Included are balance, forbearance, forgiveness, holiness, humility, joy, longsuffering, love, meekness, wisdom, and wrath against sin.  The appearance and message of believers are to center upon grace, not works.  Consider again how some of this is stated in the language of the Bible:

(1.)  2nd Kings 5:  9-13, King James Version (KJV):  9 So Naaman came with his horses and with his chariot, and stood at the door of the house of Elisha.  10 And Elisha sent a messenger unto him, saying, Go and wash in Jordan seven times, and thy flesh shall come again to thee, and thou shalt be clean.  11 But Naaman was wroth, and went away, and said, Behold, I thought, He will surely come out to me, and stand, and call on the name of the LORD his God, and strike his hand over the place, and recover the leper.  12 Are not Abana and Pharpar, rivers of Damascus, better than all the waters of Israel? may I not wash in them, and be clean? So he turned and went away in a rage.  13 And his servants came near, and spake unto him, and said, My father, if the prophet had bid thee do some great thing, wouldest thou not have done it? how much rather then, when he saith to thee, Wash, and be clean?

(2.)  Matthew 12:  38-40, KJV:  38 Then certain of the scribes and of the Pharisees answered, saying, Master, we would see a sign from thee.  39 But he answered and said unto them, An evil and adulterous generation seeketh after a sign; and there shall no sign be given to it, but the sign of the prophet Jonas:  40 For as Jonas was three days and three nights in the whale’s belly; so shall the Son of man be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth.

(3.)  John 6:  27-29, KJV:  27 Labour not for the meat which perisheth, but for that meat which endureth unto everlasting life, which the Son of man shall give unto you:  for him hath God the Father sealed.  28 Then said they unto him, What shall we do, that we might work the works of God?  29 Jesus answered and said unto them, This is the work of God, that ye believe on him whom he hath sent.

There is far more that should be said, carefully examined, and spiritually understood.  (For example, (4.)  Ephesians 2:  8-10, KJV:  8 For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves:  it is the gift of God:  9 Not of works, lest any man should boast.  10 For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC